New Delhi, July 15: India and Poland are exploring opportunities to manufacture certain defense platforms (military equipment and systems) in India. This information was shared by Poland’s Deputy Foreign Minister and Secretary of State, Wladyslaw Teofil Bartoszewski, on Tuesday.
Bartoszewski stated, “India is interested in specific defense platforms that we produce. We are discussing how these can be manufactured in India with some Indian participation. Additionally, we are also looking at the possibility of creating joint ventures to manufacture some Indian platforms in Poland with Polish involvement.”
He emphasized the desire to enhance cooperation in security and defense, given the current global circumstances. “We are not just talking about selling defense equipment; we are also discussing the potential for starting companies together to produce certain items in India. We understand Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s ‘Make in India’ initiative and want both Indian and Polish participation in these platforms,” he added.
The Polish minister also highlighted the significance of the free trade agreement (FTA) between India and the European Union (EU), stating that it would significantly boost trade between both parties.
He noted that during Prime Minister Modi‘s visit to Poland two years ago, an agreement was reached on strategic partnership. Now, a work plan is in place for implementation. “We are pleased that India has signed a foreign trade agreement with the European Union, which will enhance our trade participation,” he remarked.
Discussing the changing security landscape in Europe and its impact on the defense sector, Bartoszewski mentioned that Poland views India as a reliable partner in projects aimed at enhancing defense capabilities.
He pointed out that India has never allowed its defense industry to weaken, as its situation is different. However, for the past 30 years, it was believed in Poland and the rest of Europe that war was unlikely, leading to a lack of investment in defense capabilities and arms manufacturing. “Now, the situation has changed significantly. We are rapidly working on such projects, often with our partners, and India will certainly be one of them,” he stated.
Bartoszewski revealed that Poland expects to return to India by the end of this year with several arms manufacturing companies and defense firms, some of which are already present in India.
On Monday, Bartoszewski met with Secretary (West) Sibi George at the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA). The meeting discussed the growing momentum in the India-Poland strategic partnership, political and economic cooperation, technology, defense, cultural ties, combating global terrorism, and other significant issues.
–
Leave a Comment